Migrants: Resilient Heroes of Their Own Story

This article was exclusively written for The European Sting by Mr. Jeampier Nicolas Macías Pardo, a fourth-year medical student at the National University of Loja in Ecuador. He is affiliated with the International Federation of Medical Students Associations (IFMSA), cordial partner of The Sting. The opinions expressed in this piece belong strictly to the writer and do not necessarily reflect IFMSA’s view on the topic, nor The European Sting’s one.

In an increasingly globalized and advanced society, migration has become a fundamental issue that demands an open, honest and empathetic dialogue. Beyond numbers and statistics, migration holds human stories, dreams, hopes and innate realities that must be heard and understood, it goes beyond demographics and social policies, each migrant has a unique story, a personal struggle and a dream of a better future, these stories reflect the courage and resilience of individuals who, in the face of adversity, make the difficult decision to leave their homes behind to yearn for a better life. 

In many cases, countries experiencing high levels of migration are those where opportunities for progress and well-being are scarce. People migrate seeking to escape a seemingly endless cycle of poverty and violence. This search for better living conditions must be respected and understood from a perspective of justice and equity.to address the issue of migration effectively and assertively, it is essential to do so from a perspective based on respect, tolerance and solidarity. The diversity of migratory experiences must be recognized and we must avoid falling into stereotypes and generalizations that dehumanize migrants. Empathy is crucial in this dialogue, allowing us to see migrants as human beings with dreams and aspirations similar to our own. 

The mental health of migrants is a growing concern as they face significant challenges such as the trauma of migration, adapting to new cultures, the stress of legal and economic uncertainty, and language. These factors can trigger or aggravate mental disorders such as depression, anxiety and more. It is vital to provide support to help these people cope with the challenges that migration brings, as mental health is an aspect that is often overlooked in discussions of this nature. In 2000, Ecuador experienced an unprecedented wave of migration. This experience left a deep imprint on Ecuadorian society and serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by migrants around the world and the reality of many in addition to high instances of violence. 

Migrants are heroes of their own story. They are not victims, not criminals, they are brave human beings who deserve respect, admiration and support. The way in which this issue is analyzed and understood must change to recognize and celebrate the steadfastness and strength of migrants, it is a complex issue that has no easy solutions. However, it is possible to build a more just tomorrow if we focus on equity, diversity and inclusion. We must work to create societies where all people have the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their origin or immigration status. 

Remember,  

“They left their home in search of hope and found a world that was not prepared to receive them.” 

About the author

Jeampier Nicolas Macías Pardo, a fourth-year medical student at the National University of Loja in Ecuador, is a member of the Association of Medical Students for Projects and Exchanges (AEMPPI) in his country. Since the beginning of his career, he has tirelessly worked in the field of public health, advocating for civil rights and striving for positive change. Currently serving as a project assistant in his country, he channels his passion for a better future into meaningful initiatives. He aims to showcase the potential of students from his country and to ensure Ecuador gains recognition on the global stage.